Takeuchi TB290 Hard to Start in Cold Weather
Fault Codes & Symptoms
Hard Start Related symptoms: - No "wait to start" light or abnormally short light duration - Slightly inaccurate coolant temperature gauge reading The machine is very difficult to start on cold mornings. It cranks for a long time before it finally starts. It starts fine once the engine is warm or on warmer days.
Confirmed cause: Failed Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor. The sensor was reporting a warm engine temperature to the ECU, even when cold, preventing the ECU from activating the intake grid heater relay. Repair performed: Replaced the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor. No special procedures were required, but a small amount of coolant was lost and topped off. Verification: The machine was left to sit overnight in cold ambient temperatures. The next morning, the engine started promptly after a normal pre-heat cycle. The repair was verified. Technician notes: - The ECU uses the ECT sensor reading to determine if the pre-heat cycle is necessary. A failed sensor that reads "hot" will prevent the grid heater from ever turning on. - Always check for current draw at the heater element first. It is a quick way to confirm if the entire circuit is working or not.